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      Hyundai Ioniq 7 Spotted Testing – Kia EV9 Counterpart, Ditches Suicide Doors

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      Hyundai Ioniq 7 spotted testingKia EV9’s counterpart is Hyundai Ioniq 7 and has been spied testing for the first time – It is Hyundai SEVEN Concepts’ production versionKia and Hyundai are currently on the verge of carving out quite a chunk in global EV segment. Combined, the South Korean sister brands have developed E-GMP platform that the recently spotted Hyundai Ioniq 7 test mules will be based on. Hyundai Ioniq 7 spotted, is likely to sport similar powertrain as recently launched Kia EV9 flagship.Hyundai Ioniq 7 Spotted TestingRecent test mules of Hyundai Ioniq 7 were captured testing in Germany. Ioniq 7 is Hyundai’s counterpart of Kia EV9 flagship electric SUV and is the production version of Hyundai SEVEN electric SUV concept showcased a couple of years ago.Production-spec Ioniq 7 deviates a lot from what Hyundai showed with Concept. We’re not stressing about the lack of suicide doors (rear hinged doors) for 2nd row. Sure, that is a noticeable miss from Hyundai SEVEN concept. But we’re slightly surprised with the overall design that Hyundai is going for.As seen with SEVEN concept, Hyundai was promising a boxy SUV with a lot of presence. With production-spec Ioniq 7, Hyundai is giving out MPV vibes that seem to be in line with Hyundai Ioniq 6 sedan (saloon). Reminds us of Hyundai’s MPVs like Stargazer and Staria. Bonnet is short and A-pillar is quite raked. There’s a sense of swooping effect to this design.Hyundai Ioniq 7 fasciaNot just MPV vibes, overall design is swoopy and curvaceous, something that SEVEN concept didn’t have. Even Kia EV9 has a butch SUV stance and proportions. The test mule spotted in Germany had two different sets of alloy wheels on testing. Both these wheels are likely to be on offer with Ioniq 7, depending on different variants.Front fascia has vertically-stacked headlights that will be studded with pixel-shaped LEDs. These Pixel LEDs will comprise its LED DRL too along with rear LED signature. Side body claddings are chunky and remind us of recently launched Hyundai Kona. Rear was fully camouflaged and not a lot can be deduced.Same powertrain as Kia EV9?On the inside, Hyundai Ioniq 7 is less likely to sport the same flamboyant interiors as SEVEN concept. There is a much greater probability of Ioniq 7 packing similar attributes from both Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. Dual 12.3-inch screens on dashboard along with a few buttons here and there, are probable.Hyundai Ioniq 7 profileHyundai logo will be replaced with the four-dots that this company is going for with past vehicles. Level-three autonomous driving aids, recycled materials on the inside, third-row seating, Hyundai’s latest operating system that powers Kona EV are some of the key highlights. Ioniq 7 might be the last E-GMP equipped global electric vehicle with announcements of next-gen eM and eS platforms.Same set of powertrains as Kia EV9 is highly likely with Hyundai Ioniq 7 spotted testing in Germany. Up to 100 kWh battery, dual motor layout with total system output of 380 bhp from Kia EV9 is logical. Claimed range on EV9 is 350 miles (563 km), while the aerodynamic design of Ioniq 7 can eke out more range. India launch is iffy and company hasn’t officially confirmed it for the Asian subcontinent.Images – Autoexpress More

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      Kia EV5 Launched In China At Rs 17.30 Lakh – XUV.e8, Harrier EV Rival

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      Kia EV5 Launched In ChinaAs part of its plan to make EVs available to everyone, Kia has launched the brand new EV5 mid-size electric SUVKia has aggressive plans for the EV segment at the global scale. It has the blueprint of a dedicated lineup of new electric vehicles, from EV1 to EV9. Some of these like EV6 and EV9 are already on sale. And now, Kia has launched the EV5 in China. EV5 is Kia’s first global strategic model to be introduced in China.Kia EV5 launched in ChinaKia has announced the launch of EV5 at the ongoing 21st China Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition. EV5 prices start at 149,800 yuan, which is approximately USD 20,800 or Rs 17.30 lakh. The prices are around 10,000 yuan (1,400 USD) lower than the pre-sales prices. Kia had opened pre-sales for EV5 in China earlier this year in August.At that time, starting price was announced at 159,800 yuan (22,100 USD). It makes sense, as China is a safe bet for any EV manufacturer. The country has emerged as the largest electric car market in the world. With leadership in battery production and related technologies, China has witnessed faster adoption of electric vehicles in comparison to other regions of the world.Kia EV5 will play a key role in helping the company achieve its EV goals. Kia has set a target of selling one million electric vehicles per year by 2026. This number will increase to 1.6 million units per annum by the end of this decade. EV5 is affordably priced and is expected to generate significant sales volumes. It will soon be available in other markets as well. EV5 is positioned as a family-oriented SUV, offering an optimal mix of performance, range and hi-tech features.Kia EV5 specs and featuresKia EV5 is underpinned by the E-GMP platform. This is a dedicated EV platform that has spawned several of Kia and Hyundai’s new-gen models. EV5 in China has a 64.2 kWh battery pack that supplies power to a 160-kW motor. The battery pack has LFP chemistry and is supplied by China-based manufacturer BYD. Variants with the 64.2 kWh battery have a certified range of 530 km.EV5 long-range version is equipped with an 88-kWh battery pack. The motor is the same 160 kW unit with both models. Certified range extends to 720 km. Kia has yet to reveal the price for the long-range model. Earlier this year, Kia had also announced a long-range AWD model. However, it is not certain if that variant will be introduced in China. EV5 is fitted with a dedicated heat pump system that reduces the risk of battery-related fire incidents.Kia EV5 has an attractive visual styling and packs in a comprehensive range of features. Interiors follow a minimalistic design language, which enhances the sense of space and comfort. Features that instantly grab one’s attention include the integrated dual screens and the four-spoke steering wheel with a gear lever.Kia EV5 DashboardUsers can feel confident about safety, as EV5 is offering a comprehensive range of features including ADAS. Safety kit includes 7-airbags, L2+ level assisted driving, remote control smart parking and semi-automatic lane changing. More

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      MG Cyberster Launched – Electric Sportscar Costs Less Than Fortuner

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      MG Cyberster Launched in ChinaThe primary rival for MG Cyberster launched in China, is Neta GT, another convertible 2-door electric sportscar with similar specs and performanceWith the rising price wars in China, MG Cyberster prices were supposed to start from as low as CNY 239,800 which translates to Rs. 27.5 lakh. Prior to this, MG Cyberster was supposed to start from CNY 300,000. But MG has finally put a stop to these speculations by launching its all-electric sportscar, Cyberster, starting from CNY 319,900.MG Cyberster Launched in ChinaFirst debuted at Goodwood Festival Of Speed, MG Cyberster is now launched in China. The pricing is the talking point with this all-electric sportscar from the British brand. There are three trim levels on offer – Glamour Edition, Style Edition and Pioneer Edition. These trims get varied powertrain combinations too – RWD 501, RWD 580 and AWD 520 respectively.As per pricing, MG Cyberster Glamour Edition RWD 501 costs CNY 319,800 (approx Rs. 37 lakh), Style Edition RWD 580 costs CNY 339,800 (approx Rs. 39 lakh) and Pioneer Edition AWD 520 costs CNY 315,800 (approx Rs. 41.5 lakh). For context, a top-spec Fortuner costs Rs. 10 lakh more in India than a top-spec Cyberster in China.MG Cyberster launched in China, is a luxurious and sensational 2-door all-electric sportscar that gets up to 77 kWh of battery, 536 bhp dual motor setup with 725 Nm torque, scissor doors (Lamborghini doors), an electrically operated convertible soft top along with performance metrics like 3.2 second sprint to 100 km/h from standstill.MG Cyberster FasciaFor the Chinese pricing, if this ain’t impressive, I don’t know what is. Made by Chinese State-owned SAIC at Ningde plant, MG Cyberster is likely to debut in key global locations including Britain and Europe. Dimensionally, it measures 4535 mm in length, 1913 mm in width, 1329 mm in height and has a 2690 mm long wheelbase.Sensational design pays homage to British heritageSaid convertible roof takes 10 seconds to open at speeds under 50 km/h. The whole design is sensational. Sloping front, air ducts in bodywork, classic headlight design, and timeless proportions are complemented by 4-pot Red painted Brembo brake calipers behind 20-inch aluminium wheels.On the inside, the triple-screen setup behind steering wheel takes centre stage. Outer displays at either end tilt towards driver. Steering wheel is a flat-bottom unit and not the yoke that was showcased before. MG hasn’t butchered the buttons as there are still some of them left, finished to exude elegance. The whole cabin is wrapped in premium materials that feel luxurious and plush, especially with the metallic accents everywhere.MG Cyberster DesignCyberster marks the return of MG to sportscar production. Base RWD 501 model gets a 64 kWh battery pack powering a single motor with 310 bhp and 475 Nm, driving rear wheels only. Range is pegged at 501 km. Mid-spec RWD 580 gets a larger 77 kWh battery but with the same single motor RWD setup. Both models will hit 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.Top-spec AWD 520 gets the same 77 kWh battery but has two motors with a combined 536 bhp, 725 Nm, 520 km range and a 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.2 seconds. We would like MG to launch it in India, but price it around Rs. 80 lakh for top-spec AWD 520 model that costs Rs. 41.5 lahks in China.MG Cyberster Scissor Doors More

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      New Chery Small Electric Car Launch Price 78k Yuan (Rs 8.92 L) – 408 Kms Range

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      New Chery Small Electric CarIn international markets, primary rivals of Chery New Little Ant will be other popular mini EVs such as Wuling Air EV and DFSK Seres E1One of the leading EV manufacturers in China, Chery New Energy has launched the New Little Ant in its home market. Prices start at 77,900 yuan, which is approximately Rs 8.92 lakh. Top-spec variant is priced at 82,900 yuan (~ Rs 9.49 lakh). Chery New Energy is part of the state-owned Chery Automobile Co. Ltd.Chery New Little Ant – What’s new?Chery New Little Ant can be described as an updated version of the Classic Little Ant. But both vehicles will be sold alongside. New Little Ant has refined exteriors and a more attractive overall profile. Some of the differentiating factors include a clutter-free front fascia, new headlamps and DRLs and a closed-off front grille. There’s a new Qq logo as well on the grille.New Chery Small Electric CarSide panels have distinctive, deeper grooves for a brawny feel. Rear profile is largely the same as Classic Little Ant. Users who are particular about the choice of colours will have more options to choose with the New Little Ant. A total of seven colour shades are available. It includes dark green, light green, purple, peach, agave blue, white and gray. In comparison, the Classic Little Ant has only five colour options.Chery New Little Ant interiorsOn the inside, New Little Ant differentiates itself with a refreshed dashboard, a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a modern-looking steering wheel and slimmer air vents. A minimalistic design language has been implemented, which significantly enhances the sense of roominess in the cabin. Other key highlights of Chery New Little Ant include power adjustable driver seat, wireless charging, leather seat upholstery, heated seats and steering wheel, large makeup mirror with LED lights and PM2.5 air filter.New Chery Small Electric CarA number of advanced tech features are available such as voice controls and remote functions accessible via an app. Safety kit includes electronic stability control, hill assist control, tyre pressure monitoring system, rear parking sensors, pedestrian warning system, cruise control and automatic power-off on collision.New Chery Small Electric CarChery New Little Ant specs, performanceBoth Chery New Little Ant and Classic Little Ant have the same dimensions and powertrain options. The mini EVs are 3,242 mm long, 1,670 mm wide, 1,550 mm tall and have a wheelbase of 2,150 mm. Ground clearance is 120 mm whereas turning radius is 4.55 meters.New Chery Small Electric CarThe standard powertrain delivers 50 PS of max power and 95 Nm of peak torque. There are three battery options with different compositions. The 25.05 kWh lithium iron phosphate offers 251 km range. The 28.86 kWh ternary lithium battery and the 29.23 kWh LFP battery have a 301 km range.New Chery Small Electric CarThe high-spec powertrain delivers 76 PS and 150 Nm. It has a 40.3 kWh ternary lithium battery, with a range of 408 km. All these range numbers are based on the CLTC test cycle. Both models are offered in RWD format. More

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      Tata Avinya To Get JLR EMA Platform – Major Gains In Range, Safety, Performance

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      Tata Avinya production spec RenderAided by JLR’s EMA platform, Tata Avinya will spawn a new range of truly world-class EVsTo improve competencies, Tata Motors has been focusing on increasing synergies between its subsidiaries. A relevant example is Harrier and Safari, which have benefited immensely from JLR’s D8 platform. And now, something similar is being targeted for upcoming Avinya electric SUV.Avinya to get JLR’s EMA platformAs may be recalled, Tata has created an entirely new business subsidiary named Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd (TPEM) to focus exclusively on EVs. This will allow the company to handle the tough competition that is expected in EV space in the coming years. To give it more strength, a collaboration has been formed between Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd (TPEM) and Jaguar Land Rover Plc (JLR). The latter is also a fully-owned subsidiary of Tata Motors. The collaboration will ensure that upcoming Avinya and other EVs based on that platform can be launched within the targeted time frame.Tata AVINYA Electric ConceptAs part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two firms, JLR will be licensing its Electrified Modular Architecture (EMA) platform to TPEM. For the services and technology sharing, TPEM will be paying a royalty fee to JLR. It will cover sharing of manufacturing know-hows, electrical architecture, battery pack and electric drive unit.JLR’s EMA platform will play a key role in expediting the development of TPEM’s ‘premium pure electric’ vehicles series ‘Avinya’. In addition to the MoU, the two firms will also sign an Engineering Services Agreement (ESA). This will take care of any change content requirements that TPEM may have for the first vehicle development.New Tata AvinyaJLR’s EMA platform – key benefitsTPEM’s collaboration with JLR is a step in the right direction. It will allow significant reduction in the development cost of Avinya range of EVs. JLR is ahead in the game and transferring the know-how and technology to another Tata subsidiary makes sense. It will enable Avinya series EVs to be globally competitive and future proof.Talking about JLR’s EMA platform, it will be used for JLR’s next generation of ‘pure electric’ mid-sized SUVs for international markets. These are scheduled to be launched from 2025 onwards. The EMA platform has been developed to offer a range of benefits. It includes significant gains across interior space, connectivity, comfort, software, over the air capabilities and advanced electrical and electronic (E&E) architecture. EMA platform will utilize a highly integrated propulsion system, comprising cell to pack battery technology, battery management and charging system. It will be able to deliver world class range and vehicle efficiency.With JLR’s assistance, TPEM will be able expedite its entry into the high-end EV segment. The advanced E&E architecture developed by JLR supports upgrades to L2+ autonomy, carrying all advanced connectivity, comfort and convenience features. TPEM will also gain in terms of faster adoption of safety (5-star EuroNCAP), Features Over the Air (FOTA), Software Over the Air (SOTA) and ultrafast charging systems for high performance vehicles. More

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      Toyota Hiace BEV Concept Debuts With Multiple Applications

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      Toyota Hiace BEV Concept InteriorsDesigned for versatility, Toyota Hiace BEV concept can take up various roles such as tourist vehicle, cargo carrier, ambulance, etc.At the ongoing Japan Mobility Show, Toyota has unveiled the Hiace BEV concept. It has been created by Toyota Auto Body, a subsidiary of Toyota. As compared to the standard ICE model, Hiace BEV gets refreshed exteriors and interiors in line with its electric character. The high level of customization options available for the cargo bay is another key USP of Hiace fully electric van.Toyota Hiace BEV concept featuresHiace BEV concept has the core silhouette of 6th-gen Hiace that was introduced in 2019. However, the exteriors are entirely new. The van has a futuristic look and feel. It continues to have a dominating street presence, as seen with standard ICE variants. Much of it comes from its massive size, a prominent front fascia and boxy overall profile.Hiace BEV utilizes the Normal/Standard Roof body of ICE Hiace that is 5,265 mm long, 1,950 mm wide and 1,990 mm tall. Wheelbase is 3,210 mm. But Hiace BEV is actually 15 mm longer, owing to its updated front section. There is plenty of cargo space, 1,715 mm wide and 1,270 mm tall, to be exact.The cargo area can be used as is or customized with different types of shelves, racks, drawers, etc. In terms of its visual appeal, Hiace BEV easily qualifies as the most attractive version till date. The level of evolution the vehicle has undergone is evident when compared to the predecessors dating back to 1967. All throughout, the van has gotten smarter and larger.Toyota Hiace BEV Concept FasciaHiace BEV concept gets some unique features such as pixel-shaped LED headlamps, sleek LED DRLs doubling as turn indicators, a giant closed-off grille and contrasting yellow lighting elements on the corners. On the sides, Hiace BEV has large sliding doors, body-coloured door handles, rectangular rear-view mirrors, circular wheel arches and thick body cladding.There’s a distinctive character line that stretches all the way from the front headlamps to the tail lamps. Alloy wheels are entirely new and designed for enhanced aerodynamics. Tail lamps are vertically stacked. There is an option to choose a barn door or a regular tailgate based on requirement. A video released by Toyota showcases another variant that has a longer wheelbase, side windows and higher roof.Toyota Hiace BEV concept interiorsWhile the focus is on moving stuff, Hiace BEV gets a range of premium features. There’s a large vertically stacked infotainment touchscreen that appears to be more than 14-inches in size. It has in-built turn-by-turn navigation. The driver also has access to a large fully digital instrument cluster. The van’s connectivity suite offers a range of remote functions. In place of the gear lever used with standard ICE Hiace, the BEV version has a rotary dial.Toyota Hiace BEV Concept Interior LayoutToyota has not revealed any details about the powertrain. However, it would be safe to assume that the BEV version’s performance will be comparable to its ICE sibling. With ample space for a large battery pack, Hiace BEV will have adequate range to manage the day’s tasks.Toyota Hiace BEV Concept Barn Door Option More

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      Mahindra Thar Electric Homologated – Prepping For New Adventures

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      Mahindra Thar Electric HomologatedAs compared to existing Thar that has a ladder frame chassis, Thar electric will utilize Mahindra’s advanced INGLO platformEarlier this year in August, Mahindra had unveiled the Thar electric SUV concept. It had received wide appreciation for its splendid design and enhanced off-roading capabilities. Thar electric, which will go on sale as Thar.e, has now been homologated in India.Thar electric – Improving the iconic designGlobally, the armoured look is becoming the new normal for several of the next-gen off-road focused SUVs. Thar electric seems to be working on the same lines. The design is so unique that it’s difficult even to relate it to existing ICE-based Thar. Also helps to wipe the slate clean, in view of legal hurdles Thar had to face in the past. All-new Thar electric is bold, brawny, brutish and born to conquer.Mahindra Thar Electric HomologatedSome of the key highlights of Thar.e include squarish LED headlamps with integrated DRLs, rugged front and rear bumper, new clamshell bonnet and large wheel arches. The SUV gets a bold new design for the alloy wheels. These are shod with off-road tyres with deep tread patterns. The flat roof and rear section create the signature boxy profile. Doors have exposed hinges, which complement the SUV’s rugged character.Inside, Thar.e will have a large touchscreen and a fully digital instrument console. The cockpit area wears a decluttered look, enhancing the sense of roominess. The centre console is placed high, ensuring a clear demarcation of individual spaces. Thar electric has a new steering wheel with mounted controls. The large, robust grab handles are functionally relevant and hint towards the SUV’s off-roading capabilities.New Mahindra Thar ElectricMahindra Thar.e performanceMahindra is yet to reveal powertrain details of Thar electric. However, it will be safe to assume that the electric version will have even better capabilities than existing ICE variant. Both 3-door and 5-door models will be on offer. These will have dual motor setup. The INGLO platform will be using BYD’s Blade and Prismatic cells that are known for their durability and long range.Ground clearance of Thar electric will be 250 mm to 300 mm. Front and rear overhang will be kept as low as possible. It will be around 640 mm – 680 mm and 680 mm – 740 mm, respectively. Wheelbase will be 2,775 mm to 2,975 mm. Thar electric will have best in class approach angle, departure angle, ramp-over angle and water wading capabilities.While Thar electric is quite tempting, enthusiasts may have to wait several months before they can take it for a test ride. Mahindra has its hands full, managing existing deliveries as well as working on its electric range. Mahindra will be electrifying its existing ICE SUVs and also introduce its born-electric SUVs. All of these will take time. Thar electric is unlikely to launch before 2026. It can even stretch to 2027. More

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      India-bound BYD Seal Euro NCAP Results Out – Joins 5 Star Club!

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      BYD Seal Euro NCAP 5 Star ratingBYD Seal Euro NCAP crash tests yield 89% in adult and 87% in child occupant protection along with 82% in vulnerable road users and 76% in safety assistThe Chinese EV juggernaut, BYD, has been on the verge of expanding its electric vehicle portfolio in India. Starting with e6 eMPV for commercial segment, BYD has expanded quite a bit with e6 for private buyers and Atto 3 eSUV. The third vehicle for BYD in India is Seal sedan, which has recently scored an impressive 5 stars in Euro NCAP crash tests.India-bound BYD Seal scores 5 stars in Euro NCAPEuro NCAP crash-tested the new BYD Seal electric sedan through their rigorous protocols. Result of this was an impressive 5 Stars crash safety rating. Tested car was BYD Seal ‘Design’ trim 4X2 LHD model. It is a four-door saloon (sedan) weighing 2091 kg in total. Tested model came equipped with front and side airbags, missing a knee airbag.Kit like seat belt reminders, seat belt pre-tensioner, child presence detectors and load limiters were standard fitment. Active safety kit included multiple ADAS features like auto braking 9front and rear), speed assistance, lane assistance and fatigue detection, among others were part of standard fitment as well.For adult occupant crash tests, Euro NCAP tested BYD Seal electric sedan for frontal impact, lateral impact and rear impact. The car scored 13.5/16 points in frontal impact, 16/16 for lateral impact, 3.7 /4 points for rear impact and 2.5/4 points for rescue extrication. All of this combined, BYD Seal bagged a total of 35.8 points, which turns out to be 89% in adult occupant protection.[embedded content]Where child protection is concerned, BYD Seal scored 24/24 points in crash tests based on 6 and 10 year old children. 7/13 points were awarded for safety features and 12/12 points for CRS installation check tests. With 43 points, Euro NCAP awarded 87% positive crash results in child protection.In vulnerable road users test, BYD Seal scored a total of 51.7 points resulting in 82% and a total of 13.8 points resulting in 76% score in Safety systems. All of these combined, BYD has awarded BYD Seal electric sedan a total of 5 Stars, with vehicle structure proving stable in the event of an unfortunate crash.When will it launch in India?BYD Seal is particularly important for India as the company has already debuted in India at 2023 Auto Expo. Seal even went live on BYD India’s official site. A large hero section of BYD India’s website shows impressive headline figures for Seal sedan.BYD Seal Euro NCAP reportSpeaking of headline figures, BYD Seal can hit 100 km/h from a standstill, in just 3.8 seconds, which is upper-tier sports car territory. Along with that, 700 km of range from a single charge, 50:50 weight distribution and 0.219 Cd air drag coefficient.Performance metrics like this are possible from the top-spec 82.5 kWh battery equipped model with dual motor layout boasting 530 bhp and 670 Nm along with AWD. There is a lower-spec model with a 61.4 kWh battery and single motor RWD architecture with 204 bhp.In Thailand, base BYD Seal starts from 1.32 million Baht (Rs. 30 lakh). When launched in India in 2024, we could only expect the higher-spec vehicle, costing around Rs. 60 lakh and rivalling the likes of Kia EV6 and BMW i4. We hope BYD also launch Seagull hatchback in India. More